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NERVOUS SYSTEM › PSYCHOANALEPTICS › PSYCHOSTIMULANTS, AGENTS USED FOR ADHD AND NOOTROPICS › Centrally acting sympathomimetics
dexamfetamine
N06BA02
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablets: 5 mg
- Oral liquid: 5 mg/5 mL
- Extended-release capsules: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg
Adult Dosing
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Initial 5 mg once or twice daily, titrated by 5 mg at weekly intervals up to a maximum of 60 mg/daily
- Narcolepsy: 5 mg to 60 mg daily in divided doses, depending on individual patient response
Pediatric Dosing
- ADHD (children aged 6 years and older): Initial 5 mg once or twice daily, titrated by 5 mg at weekly intervals up to a maximum of 40 mg/daily
- ADHD (children aged 3 to 5 years): Initial 2.5 mg daily, titrated by 2.5 mg at weekly intervals
Indications
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Narcolepsy
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into presynaptic neurons
- Increases the release of catecholamines into the extraneuronal space, enhancing central nervous system dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to amphetamines or any component of the formulation
- Advanced arteriosclerosis
- Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
- Moderate to severe hypertension
- Hyperthyroidism
- Glaucoma
- History of drug abuse
- Concurrent administration with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing them
Adverse Reactions
- Insomnia
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Tachycardia and palpitations
- Elevated blood pressure
- Anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Risk of hypertensive crisis
- CYP2D6 inhibitors: May alter amphetamine exposure and effects
- Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid): Decrease amphetamine absorption and urinary excretion rate
- Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate): Increase amphetamine absorption and decrease urinary excretion rate
- Antihypertensive agents: Amphetamines may decrease their efficacy
- Serotonergic agents: Increased risk of serotonin syndrome when co-administered
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use